Ghent University Hospital

Seamless critical communication thanks to smart lighting at UZ Gent

UZ Gent aims to offer its nurses and patients in the respiratory diseases ward (including COVID) a more efficient and higher-quality care experience. To achieve this, the hospital now relies on the innovative top technology of LynX® for seamless critical communication.

What does this system enable?

In collaboration with 25-8, UZ Gent integrated smartphones, smart lighting, and a (wireless) medical and nurse call system into the daily operations of the respiratory diseases ward. This not only optimized the department, but also allows nurses to care for patients more efficiently than ever before.

Moreover, the system was installed with full redundancy, ensuring that patient and medical calls remain operational even during a power outage.

Always close — even from a distance

The ward now features a brand-new medical call system, allowing nurses to monitor medical equipment connected to their patients at any time and from any location via their smartphone.

Each bed is equipped with four connection points, accessible only by authorized personnel using a badge. LED lighting behind the connection points clearly indicates whether the medical equipment is properly connected.

Hands-free communication

Each room in the renovated respiratory ward is equipped with a small display featuring two-way audio communication. When nurses have their hands full, they can communicate with patients or colleagues and respond to calls using voice feedback.

Patients, in turn, can easily place a call using their wireless call button.

Fast response when needed

When nurses need to assist in a room, they are now visually guided by smart lighting, allowing them to reach the patient in need faster than ever.

Each type of call — nurse call, assistance call, emergency call — has its own color. For example, emergency calls are indicated by blue light blocks moving along a white light line toward the intervention location.

Lighting that sets the mood

The LED line also contributes to an optimal atmosphere. Nurses can choose the color and intensity of the light themselves, or let the system follow a time-based program.

• During the day, the ward is brightly lit with a subtle blue hue, making it easier to read screens and documents.
• In the evening, the lighting becomes softer and more intimate, creating a calming environment.